The Bombay High Court declared that wives are not “deemed maids” and cannot be accused of cruelty for imperfect household chores. Overturning a divorce order, the court mandated a husband to pay Rs 20,000 monthly maintenance, emphasizing marriage as an equal partnership, not a service contract. Cruelty requires severe conduct, not minor marital disagreements. The Bombay High Court declared that wives are not “deemed maids” and cannot be accused of cruelty for imperfect household chores. Overturning a divorce order, the court mandated a husband to pay Rs 20,000 monthly maintenance, emphasizing marriage as an equal partnership, not a service contract. Cruelty requires severe conduct, not minor marital disagreements.
